What does the Gestalt Principle of proximity state?

The Gestalt Principle of proximity asserts that elements that are close together in space are perceived as being more related or grouped together than those that are further apart. This principle highlights how our brains tend to organize visual information by proximity, allowing us to quickly make sense of our environment and identify relationships between visual elements.

When items are placed near each other, we are naturally inclined to see them as part of a larger whole or as part of the same category, which enhances the user's understanding of the overall structure. For instance, in web design, elements like a group of buttons or icons that are placed close together are often interpreted as belonging to the same function or category, which improves usability and navigation.

In contexts of design and visual layout, applying the principle of proximity can create clearer hierarchical structures and guide user attention effectively. This can influence how users navigate and interact with a design by making it more intuitive and organized.